AIMIM backs corporator’s ‘green’ remark, sparks political row

Mumbai ;A political controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after AIMIM councillor Sehar Sheikh’s remarks about “turning the state green” received strong backing from Maharashtra AIMIM president Imtiaz Jaleel. The statements have triggered sharp reactions from rival parties, particularly Shiv Sena (UBT), escalating tensions in the state’s already polarised political atmosphere.

Backing Sehar Sheikh without any reservation, Imtiaz Jaleel said the party would not retreat from her statement. “We will never step back because of Sehar Sheikh’s statement. In the coming days, we will hoist the green flag across Maharashtra. Whatever Sehar has said is the party’s stand, and AIMIM fully supports her,” Jaleel said. He went a step further by adding, “I am talking about turning not just Maharashtra, but the entire country green.”

The AIMIM leadership has closed ranks behind both Jaleel and Sheikh. Party spokesperson Waris Pathan echoed the sentiment, stating that the green flag would be raised not only in Maharashtra and Mumbai but across the country. AIMIM leaders have maintained that the remarks reflect political ambition and organisational growth rather than any divisive intent.

However, the statements have drawn strong criticism from opposition parties. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders reacted sharply, accusing AIMIM of undermining national unity. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey said the party strongly opposed such thinking. “The national tricolour already includes green and saffron. Any attempt to impose a single colour ideology is unacceptable. Shiv Sena firmly rejects AIMIM’s mindset,” Dubey said.

The controversy stems from Sehar Sheikh’s victory speech following her electoral win. During her address, she reportedly said, “We will colour the entire Mumbra green. If not today, then over the next five years, every representative from Mumbra will be from AIMIM. The opposition will be wiped out.” The remarks quickly went viral, sparking political backlash and public debate.

Senior leaders from the ruling alliance have also responded. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took a dig at the AIMIM, stating, “Thane is saffron and it will remain saffron,” rejecting any suggestion of political ‘greening’ of the region.

While AIMIM leaders insist the comments symbolise political expansion and confidence, critics argue that such rhetoric could deepen communal divides. The episode has once again highlighted how political symbolism and language continue to play a powerful role in Maharashtra’s electoral landscape, with the debate now dominating state-level political discourse.